The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has hailed the formation of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition under the interim leadership of former Senate President David Mark, describing it as “a milestone in Nigeria’s political evolution”.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Rwang Pam Jnr, president of COPDEM’s national executive committee, said the coalition marks a critical step towards national renewal and democratic rescue ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“At this defining moment in our national journey, the ADC coalition offers a platform capable of uniting forward-thinking Nigerians in the urgent task of national rescue and democratic renewal,” the group said.
COPDEM congratulated the ADC leadership for what it called a bold and timely move, and urged the coalition to embrace transparency, unity, and vigilance as it builds momentum.
The group warned key national institutions, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and security agencies, against bias and manipulation.
“Any attempt to sabotage this coalition will not only backfire but also risk triggering a national crisis with dire consequences for our hard-won democracy,” the statement read.
COPDEM said the responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s future belongs to all citizens, not just those in power.
It praised the appointment of Senator David Mark as interim chairman, citing his experience, maturity, and democratic credentials.
The statement also acknowledged the contributions of other political figures, including former minister Rauf Aregbesola, former PDP spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi, and former ADC chairman Ralph Nwosu.
“This movement is not another elite alliance aimed at capturing power without purpose. Nigerians are tired of transactional politics. What they seek is visionary, transparent, and ethical leadership,” the group stated.
COPDEM urged the ADC coalition to prioritise openness in leadership selection, policy direction, and candidate nominations.
“Transparency is not just good governance, it is political survival. Nigerians will no longer entrust their future to opaque political structures,” it said.
The coalition also warned against internal divisions, describing them as the major reason past alliances collapsed.
“Nigeria’s diversity is its strength, if managed with vision and justice. Leadership appointments must reflect our national character to build a resilient movement,” the group noted.
It accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of historically using state power and infiltration to undermine opposition movements, but vowed resistance.
“We are aware of APC’s tactics, but Nigerians are wiser now. We will not be intimidated, co-opted, or silenced.
“The 2027 elections are not just another political cycle; they are a potential turning point. Victory is inevitable if we stay true to our collective ideals,” COPDEM stated.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the ADC coalition through civic education, policy engagement, and election observation.
